The Top 10 Restaurants in Olinda, Brazil

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Famous for its pastel-colored houses and attractive colonial architecture, the bohemian enclave of Olinda is among the most sought out destinations in northern Brazil. And despite being a relatively small town, a steady influx of tourists means numerous fine restaurants can be found among her charming cobblestone streets. Here are the best.

Oficina do Sabor

Restaurant, Brazilian, $$$$$

Widely considered among the best restaurants in the entire northeast, this unpretentious family-style diner serves up the best seafood in town. Be sure to try their house special, an oven-baked pumpkin packed full of succulent crustaceans such as shrimp or lobster.

For a satisfying seafood feast with a bit of Spanish flair, try this friendly little Iberian restaurant in the heart of the old town. The amiable Portuguese chef ran a successful restaurant in Paris for several decades, so you can be sure he knows his stuff.

Another Olinda seafood institution, friendly local chef Alcindo Queiroz is renowned for his tasty moquecas, a traditional Brazillian seafood stew. Pasta and beef dishes can be found on the menu too, while their excellent selection of desserts are second to none.

A favorite of courting couples, this romantic restaurant with stunning ocean views is known for its creative and experimental seafood menu. Grab a seat on the leafy outdoor terrace and be sure to try their divine shrimp in whisky and béchamel sauce.

More of a bar than a restaurant, but worth checking out all the same. This quirky little establishment actually doubles as a general store, convenient for punters keen to pick up some milk and bread while they enjoy an afternoon brew. Cold meat and cheese platters are available to snack on.

Travelers just looking for a light snack to hold them over a few hours should make their way to the Alto da Sé market and sample some tapioca (starchy white pudding) from one of the many street stall vendors. Locals take advantage of the superb hilltop views to enjoy a sunset caprihinia or two.

For a light, late lunch or a decadently sweet snack, head to Estação café, one of Olinda’s coolest coffeehouses. Try to rock up on a Friday or Saturday evening when the smooth sounds of live Bossa Nova and Samba permeate through the air.

The a la carte dishes are nothing to sneeze at, but it’s Franceso’s cheesy thin crust pizzas that attract a consistent flow of hungry locals. Exquisite seafood options are available for those who would like to sample some fruits of the sea.

The modestly named Creperia have got the crepe market corned in Olinda, offering their delicious sweet and savory pancake inspired creations on a pleasant patio featuring a solid collection of towering bamboo trees.